Heroes' welcome at Juniper House

Juniper House, the new 60-bed care home in Candleford Close in Brackley was officially opened yesterday by two local heroes – Private Alex Stringer and Delia Davies

Private Stringer, nominated by Juniper House's Chef Shaun Brennan, joined the army in 2008 and was part of the 23 Pioneer Regiment Royal Logistic Corps, based in Bicester. He was deployed to Afghanistan in 2010. While on duty in early 2011 he sustained life changing injuries when he was caught in an explosion from an Improvised Explosive Device carrying out his role a Searcher.  He was featured in a two-part documentary by the BBC called ‘Bomb Squad’, which was shown in September 2011.

Delia Davies, nominated by local GP Dr Perrott, has spent over 20 years working with the community social care team within South Northamptonshire where she assisted people with long-term mental health needs. Since retirement Delia has continued to support the local community with initiatives by forming support groups and networks for former clients.

The event was well received and everyone raised a toast to the new home as Private Stringer, supported by his regiment, unveiled a plaque to mark the opening of Juniper House. Guests then took tours of the home and garden followed by canapés and entertainment from a local string quartet.

Major Darren Battersby spoke on behalf of Private Stringer, and said: “We are very proud that Private Stringer and the regiment have received this accolade. We look forward to forging lasting ties with staff and residents at Juniper House as well as being part of future fundraising events, too.”

Mike Parsons, Founder and Chief Executive of Barchester Healthcare, said: “It has been an honour to have Private Stringer and Delia Davies at our Juniper House opening. I think it is important to support each community where we have our homes and it is only through engaging and involving our neighbours that it is possible to find real local heroes like these.”

Jane Tombleson, General Manager at the home, added: "The day has been a huge success and we now look forward to welcoming our first residents to Juniper House on 5 March.  My team and I are looking forward to making this house a home for 60 individuals and their relatives, creating a centre of excellent and delivering person-centred care.”

Juniper House will provide quality residential and nursing care as well as dedicated dementia care in its Memory Lane community.